Can our roads do more than “just” carry traffic? This PhD project explores how permeable pavements can serve both as durable road surfaces and smart drainage solutions. Through literature review, stakeholder interviews, and field studies, it evaluates their use in Denmark, their subbase function as water reservoirs, load-bearing capacity, and resilience to freeze-thaw cycles. Structured around five scientific papers, the research identifies key knowledge gaps, especially around moisture’s impact on structural behavior, and highlights industry barriers like unclear guidelines and maintenance responsibilities. A validated freeze-thaw model is introduced for integration into pavement design tools. The findings offer actionable insights to support greener infrastructure and emphasize the need for collaboration between researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to unlock the full potential of permeable pavements.

For a copy of the thesis, please email inst.build.phd@build.aau.dk